Nelson Piquet Jr., former Formula 1 driver and brother of Max Verstappen‘s girlfriend Kelly Piquet, has hinted at a significant development concerning Max Verstappen’s Max Verstappen Mercedes F1 future. During the recent British Grand Prix weekend, speculation intensified around Verstappen possibly joining the Mercedes F1 team for the 2026 season, led by Toto Wolff. Piquet Jr., speaking on the Pelas Piastas Podcast, suggested that Verstappen’s arrival at Mercedes could change the team’s dynamics.
Addressing Mercedes’ recent struggles, Piquet Jr. commented on their difficult weekends this season and made a pointed remark about what lies ahead with Verstappen:
“There are weekends this year when things just don’t work out. There’s not much to do about it. One of their drivers is a rookie, who was then unfortunately hit by Hadjar last weekend. In any case, it was not the weekend for Mercedes. But who knows what next year might bring when Max is driving there!”
Currently, Mercedes fields young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli alongside George Russell for the 2025 season. Both drivers’ contracts expire after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Mercedes has yet to confirm plans for their 2026 line-up.
Uncertainty at Red Bull Adds Fuel to Transfer Rumors
Red Bull Racing, Verstappen’s current team, has encountered turbulence with its RB21 car and the unexpected removal of long-time team principal Christian Horner in July 2025. Horner had steered the team since 2005 and was a key figure throughout Verstappen’s rise, including four consecutive world championships. These changes have intensified discussions around Verstappen’s future at Red Bull beyond the 2025 season, with Mercedes a leading potential destination.
Verstappen Publicly Acknowledges Christian Horner’s Impact
Following Horner’s exit, Verstappen expressed his appreciation for the former team boss on Instagram, highlighting their shared successes and milestones:
“From my first race win, to four world championships, we have shared incredible successes. Winning memorable races and breaking countless records. Thank you for everything, Christian!”
Having joined Red Bull in 2016, Verstappen grew into a dominant figure in Formula 1, with Horner providing guidance throughout that period. The departure of Horner opens up fresh questions about Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull or possible moves elsewhere.
Implications for Mercedes and Formula 1’s Landscape in 2026
Should Verstappen switch to Mercedes for 2026, it would mark one of the most significant driver moves in recent Formula 1 history, potentially reshaping the competitive balance. Mercedes, based in Brackley, would gain a proven champion in Verstappen, possibly boosting their championship prospects. Meanwhile, drivers Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell face an uncertain future as contract negotiations remain unannounced.
The unfolding developments will be closely watched by motorsport enthusiasts and insiders alike, with Verstappen’s next career step poised to influence team strategies and rivalries heading into the 2026 season.